Planning your first trip to Japan? You’re in for a treat! This 7-day itinerary is the perfect mix of city buzz, cultural gems, and foodie adventures. Whether you’re soaking in the neon lights of Tokyo, wandering Kyoto’s ancient streets, or munching on street food in Osaka, you’ll leave with memories (and photos) for a lifetime. Let’s dive in!
Day 1-2: Tokyo – Welcome to the City That Never Sleeps
Tokyo is the kind of place where futuristic skyscrapers sit right next to ancient temples. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
Must-Visit Spots:
- Shibuya Crossing: Kick things off at the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. It’s chaotic, it’s iconic, and it’s very Tokyo. There are alot of nice shops here.
- Shibuya 109 – A hotspot for trendy fashion, especially for young women. This department store is packed with vibrant shops featuring the latest in streetwear and stylish accessories
- Tower Records Shibuya – For music lovers, Tower Records is an iconic stop. It offers a massive selection of music, from current hits to vintage records, along with books and a café.
- Tokyu Hands – If you’re looking for quirky, unique items, Tokyu Hands is a multi-level haven. It stocks everything from DIY materials to stationery, kitchen goods, and home décor
- Muji – For minimalist design lovers, the Muji store offers a peaceful shopping experience, selling everything from home goods to clothing and skincare
- Meiji Shrine: Need a breather? This peaceful shrine surrounded by a forest is the perfect escape.
- Senso-ji in Asakusa: Tokyo’s oldest temple, packed with history (and tourists). Don’t forget to stroll through Nakamise Street for souvenirs and snacks.
- Akihabara: Anime lover or not, this tech and gaming district is a blast to explore. It’s a lively district known for its tech, gaming, and anime culture. For anime fans, it’s filled with shops selling manga, figurines, and collectibles, while gaming enthusiasts can enjoy arcade games at spots like SEGA and Taito Station. Beyond anime and gaming, the area offers quirky experiences like maid cafes and gadget stores. The neon lights and vibrant atmosphere make it an exciting place to explore, whether you’re into pop culture or just enjoy the high-energy vibe
Must-shop places if you have 1 -2 hours to spare, not including travelling time:
- For girls who likes nail art, you must go to Nail TAT.
- For cosmetics, don’t miss Cosme Harajuku.
- For guys who like gadgets, you must go to Yodobashi Akiba.
- For guys with discerning tastes in fashion, just shop at Hankyu Tokyo
What to Eat:
- Sushi: Head to Tsukiji Outer Market for melt-in-your-mouth sushi. You’ll never look at supermarket sushi the same way again.
- Ramen: Slurp away at Ichiran Ramen—it’s an experience as much as a meal.
- Wagyu sandwich: If you love beef, you must visit Shima at Shibuya. It’s a renowned teppanyaki steakhouse located in Ginza, though it has gained significant fame for its takeaway steak sandwich, which became an Instagram sensation a few years ago. The sandwich is crafted using the end cuts of the restaurant’s signature A5 wagyu, paired with a rich tomato jam and zesty whole grain mustard sauce, creating a deliciously balanced flavor combination.
Evening Vibes: Check out Odaiba for some killer views of Tokyo’s skyline and the Instagram-famous Rainbow Bridge.
Where to stay in Tokyo with great prices:
Shibuya Creston Hotel: Located near Shibuya’s vibrant center, this hotel offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. It’s close to popular attractions, public transportation, and excellent dining options, making it perfect for travelers looking for a mix of accessibility and comfort.
Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku: Conveniently located in the heart of Shinjuku, this hotel offers modern rooms with excellent amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast. It’s just a short walk from Shinjuku Station, making it easy to explore Tokyo. It’s a solid choice for those looking for both comfort and accessibility at a reasonable price
Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza Hotel: Situated in the Ginza district, this mid-range hotel is ideal for shoppers and food lovers. It features well-appointed rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and two restaurants. Its central location provides easy access to public transport and popular sites
Day 3-5: Kyoto – Get Your Zen On
Hop on the Shinkansen and zoom over to Kyoto, where history and tradition take center stage.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: You’ve seen the pictures—now walk through the endless red torii gates yourself. It’s even better in person.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Strolling through this bamboo forest feels like stepping into another world.
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This shimmering golden temple is a must-see, especially if the weather is nice.
- Gion District: Wander the streets of Kyoto’s geisha district and feel like you’ve time-traveled.
- Higashiyama Mount Peak Park: If you have time for one more day in Kyoto, we recommend visiting this Park, which is a quite a walk up to the peak, dotted with traditionally-styled shops of ancient Japan. Get a wonderful view from the top!
What to Eat:
- Kaiseki: Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese multi-course meal. Pricey, but worth it. Kaiseki refers to the food served along with alcoholic drinks for banquets or group meals. Gorgeous and colorful, kaiseki cuisine is a common way to celebrate or just spend a special day.
- Matcha Desserts: Kyoto’s got the best matcha-flavored everything—ice cream, mochi, you name it.
Evening Vibes: Take part in a tea ceremony (Sadō) for some calming, cultural vibes.
You can do both at this beautiful and luxurious Tokyo restaurant – Wabunka
Where to stay in Kyoto:
Budget: Kyoto Travelers Inn
Located within walking distance of major attractions like Gion and the Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto Travelers Inn offers a blend of traditional Japanese and Western rooms at affordable prices. Guests can enjoy a hearty Japanese breakfast, relax in the onsen, and explore nearby restaurants
Mid-Price: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
This 3-star hotel offers modern, clean rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi and a convenient central location near Nishiki Market and transportation hubs. It’s a great base for exploring Kyoto while staying within a mid-range budget
Luxury: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Situated above Kyoto Station, Hotel Granvia Kyoto combines luxury with convenience. Its stylish rooms, excellent dining options, and proximity to transportation make it ideal for those seeking a premium experience. The hotel also offers top-tier amenities, including a fitness center and an indoor pool
Day 6-7: Osaka – Foodie Paradise
Last stop: Osaka, a city that knows how to have fun and feed you well. Osaka is often described as Japan’s kitchen—its food scene is legendary, and it has a local pride that ensures you’ll leave full in more ways than one. But Osaka is more than just a foodie paradise. It’s a city that pulses with energy, blending ancient traditions with a contemporary edge. From the iconic neon lights of Dotonbori to the historical grandeur of Osaka Castle, the city is a perfect mix of the old and the new. It’s a place where people are friendly, open, and always ready to show visitors how to live life to the fullest.
For travelers, Osaka’s appeal is clear: the city offers something for everyone, whether it’s the bustling shopping streets in Umeda, the youthful vibe of the Amerikamura district, or tranquil escapes in places like the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. As the gateway to Japan’s Kansai region, Osaka also serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, while having its own distinct charm to experience. If you’re looking to dive into Japanese culture with a bit of excitement and lots of flavor, Osaka should be on your list. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of the Minami district or enjoying a thrilling ride at Universal Studios Japan, you’ll find yourself embracing the vibrant pulse of this incredible city.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Osaka Castle: A little history never hurt anyone, especially when it’s this photogenic.
- Dotonbori: Neon lights, bustling streets, and endless food stalls—it’s the beating heart of Osaka.
- Universal Studios Japan: If you’ve got a soft spot for theme parks, this one’s got Super Nintendo World!
What to Eat:
- Takoyaki: Octopus-filled balls of joy. Grab them hot off the grill in Dotonbori.
- Okonomiyaki: Think savory pancake loaded with toppings. Perfect comfort food. The most famous one is Namba Okonomiyaki Ajinoya Honten, but beware the long tourist queue. It’s usually 30 mins to 60 mins of waiting time, but it is authentic and priced right.
- Fresh oysters at Gumbo and Oyster Bar at Namba Parks, a sort of quiet but lux
Evening Vibes: Hop on a river cruise along the Tombori River to end your trip with a chill vibe.
Where to stay in Osaka
Budget: Super Hotel JR Shin-Osaka
This affordable hotel is perfect for travelers looking to save while staying near the transportation hub of Shin-Osaka. Rooms are simple but clean, and they offer a free breakfast to start your day. It’s convenient for getting around Osaka or hopping on a train to your next destination.
Mid-Price: Hotel Bali Tower Osaka Tennoji
Located in the vibrant Tennoji district, this mid-range hotel offers a unique Bali-inspired experience. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and the hotel features a restaurant serving both Balinese and Japanese cuisine. With a spa for relaxation, it’s a great option for those looking for something different
Luxury: Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel
For a touch of luxury, this hotel in Tennoji is an excellent choice. Situated next to Tennoji Station, it offers panoramic views, upscale amenities, and a variety of dining options. Guests can enjoy comfort and convenience with its exceptional service and proximity to local attractions
Travel Tips for Japan
- Getting Around: Grab a JR Pass for unlimited Shinkansen rides between cities. Within cities, use Suica or Pasmo cards for the subway.
- Stay Connected: Rent a portable Wi-Fi device or get a local SIM card—Google Maps will be your BFF.
- Packing Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, and an extra suitcase for all your shopping.
Additional Local Tips
Tokyo Tips
- Transportation: Take the Yamanote Line to quickly navigate Tokyo’s major districts.
- Shopping Hack: Visit Don Quijote for affordable souvenirs and quirky Japanese products.
- Hidden Gem: Check out Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) near Shinjuku Station for tiny bars and authentic yakitori.
Kyoto Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for Fushimi Inari Shrine to avoid crowds.
- Local Souvenirs: Pick up handmade fans, matcha sweets, or Kyoto pottery from Nishiki Market.
- Hidden Gem: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple at sunset for stunning city views.
Osaka Tips
- Dotonbori Food Crawl: Try a little bit from every stall—it’s part of the Osaka experience!
- Hidden Gem: Visit Shinsekai, a retro district with old-school vibes and cheap eats.
- Timing Tip: Go to Universal Studios Japan early to beat the crowd, especially for Super Nintendo World.
General Tips for Japan
- Cash is King: Many small shops and restaurants only accept cash, so carry yen.
- Convenience Stores: Stock up on snacks, drinks, and even affordable meals from 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson.
- Politeness Matters: Bowing, saying “arigato” (thank you), and respecting lines are important parts of Japanese culture.
Final Thoughts Japan is a one-of-a-kind destination that’ll leave you in awe, whether it’s your first trip or your tenth. This 7-day itinerary covers the highlights without feeling rushed, giving you the perfect intro to the Land of the Rising Sun. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime. Japan’s waiting for you!
